What Architects Won’t Tell You About Construction Costs

Why Cost Disconnects Happen

We’re going to say something that might ruffle a few feathers: Most architects aren’t experts in construction pricing.

We say that as a staff who has worked in both architecture firms and design-build companies—it’s one of the biggest disconnects in the industry.

Architects are trained to think creatively, push boundaries, and prioritize aesthetics—and that’s a great thing. But they’re not usually the ones pricing materials, managing subcontractors, or sourcing windows.

So when you receive your first set of plans and fall in love with the design, you might assume the cost will fall within your target range.

Then the estimates start rolling in—and suddenly, you’re tens (or hundreds) of thousands over budget.

Here’s What You’re Not Hearing:

• Architects often work in a vacuum, with little input from real-world builders
• There’s rarely a direct incentive to design to budget
• Changes during construction (from poor coordination) can be expensive

How Design-Build Changes the Game

In a design-build model, the people who design your home and the people who build it are the same team. That means we’re constantly checking ideas against the budget, local labor market, and supply chain realities.

We’re not guessing what that custom steel staircase will cost—we’re calling the fabricator.

We’re not hoping the engineered beam will pass inspection—we’re building with the local code officials in mind.

Result? Fewer surprises, more transparency, and a design you can actually afford to build.